A Comprehensive Guide to Liver Transplant Surgery: Everything You Need to Know

When it comes to matters of health, knowledge is undoubtedly power. And in the case of liver transplant surgery, understanding the intricacies and vital information surrounding this life-saving procedure is absolutely crucial. 

Whether you're personally facing the prospect of a liver transplant or seeking valuable insights for a loved one, this comprehensive guide is here to empower you with everything you need to know, including why it is necessary, common liver diseases that require transplant surgery, the types of liver transplant surgery, the cost in India, and much more. So let's begin with this. 

Why is Liver Transplant Surgery Necessary?

Liver transplant surgery is necessary when the liver can no longer function correctly due to disease, injury or infection. The liver, the largest internal organ in the body, controls metabolism, produces bile, and filters poisons from the blood. When the liver is damaged, the body cannot operate properly, endangering the person's life. The only available treatment for end-stage liver disease or liver failure is liver transplant surgery. 

There are several reasons why liver transplant surgery may be necessary, including chronic liver disease, acute liver failure, liver cancer, and genetic liver disease. Chronic liver disease is the most common reason for liver transplant surgery and can occur due to several causes, such as hepatitis C, fatty liver disease, and alcoholism. Acute liver failure can occur due to drug overdose, viral hepatitis, or autoimmune disease. Liver cancer that has not spread to other organs can also be treated with liver transplant surgery.

Common Liver Diseases that Require Transplant Surgery

Several liver conditions can necessitate a liver transplant operation. The most typical reason for liver transplantation surgery is chronic liver disease. Scarring and liver failure eventually result when the liver gets inflamed and damaged over time. This is known as chronic liver disease. Several typical chronic liver conditions that could call for transplant surgery include:

 

• Cirrhosis: Scarring of the liver due to chronic inflammation and damage, often caused by alcoholism, hepatitis B or C, or non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.

• Hepatitis B or C: Viral infections that cause chronic inflammation and damage to the liver.

• Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD): A condition in which excess fat accumulates in the liver, leading to inflammation, scarring, and liver failure.

• Primary Biliary Cholangitis (PBC): An autoimmune disease that damages the bile ducts in the liver, leading to scarring and liver failure.

Types of Liver Transplant Surgery

There are two types of liver transplant surgery: living donor transplant and deceased donor transplant. 

A healthy person donates a part of their liver to the recipient during a living donor transplant procedure. Within a few weeks, the leftover liver in both the donor and the receiver expands to its original size. Living donor transplant surgery can be performed when the recipient has a suitable donor who is willing to donate a portion of their liver.

 

In deceased donor transplant surgery, the liver is obtained from a deceased donor who has registered as an organ donor. Deceased donor transplant surgery can only be performed when a suitable liver becomes available and the recipient is on the waiting list for an organ transplant. Deceased donor transplant surgery is more common than living donor transplant surgery.

What is the Liver Transplant Surgery Cost in India?

An advanced and expensive operation, liver transplant surgery in India might cost anywhere from 20 to 30 lakhs. The type of liver transplant surgery, the hospital where it is performed, and the surgeon's fee are some of the variables that affect the cost of the procedure. India is a desirable alternative for medical tourism because liver transplant surgery there is more affordable than in other nations.

 

It is important to note that the liver transplant surgery cost in India does not include the post-operative costs, including medication, follow-up visits, and ongoing care. These costs can add up significantly, and it is essential to factor them into the overall cost of liver transplant surgery.

Finding the Best Liver Transplant Surgeon in Delhi

A highly qualified and experienced surgeon is needed for liver transplant surgery. It can be difficult to find the best liver transplant surgeon in Delhi, but there are many things to consider. Look for a board-certified surgeon who has an excellent track record and expertise doing liver transplant surgery. It's also crucial to pick a hospital with a solid history of doing liver transplant surgery successfully.

Dr Vivek Vij is the best liver transplant surgeon in Delhi, who has years of experience in giving the best liver treatment in India. You can get the best surgeons with extensive knowledge and experience.

Risks and Complications of Liver Transplant Surgery

Liver transplant surgery carries several risks and complications. Some common risks and complications of liver transplant surgery include:

 

• Bleeding

• Infection

• Blood clots

• Rejection of the new liver

• Bile duct complications

• Complications with the immune system

• Kidney failure

 

Discussing these risks and complications with the best liver transplant surgeon in Delhi before the surgery and following all post-operative care instructions to reduce the risk of complications is essential.

Success Rates and Prognosis of Liver Transplant Surgery

Liver transplant surgery in India is a highly successful procedure, with a 90% success rate in the first year after the surgery. The success rate decreases slightly in the following years but remains high. 

The prognosis for liver transplant surgery depends on several factors, including the underlying cause of liver disease, the severity of liver damage, and the patient's overall health. With proper care and ongoing medical management, many people undergoing liver transplants can live long and healthy lives.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Liver transplant surgery is a critical treatment option for people with end-stage liver disease or liver failure. It is a complex and expensive procedure that carries several risks and complications. However, with the right surgeon, hospital, and post-operative care, the success rate of liver transplant surgery is high. If you or a loved one is in need of liver transplant surgery, it is crucial to discuss all options with your medical team and choose the best course of treatment for your individual needs.

AILBS Hospital can help you to get the best treatment with state-of-the-art facilities and care. Book an appointment now to know more.